Warner/Chappell chief now also leading Warner Bros label

More changes at Warner Music in the US, following the departure in September of recorded music chief Lyor Cohen and last month’s restructure, which saw the major reposition its American operations around three divisions, frontline labels, label and artist services, and catalogue and publishing.

The latter division was most interesting, as it united Warner’s publishing business Warner/Chappell and catalogue label Rhino into one division, led by Warner/Chappell chief Cameron Strang, a real sign that when it came to catalogue, Warner Music recognised the benefit of more closely aligning its sound recording and song publishing operations.

Though perhaps that move was less about more closely integrating the two sides of the Warner business, and more about Strang being very much in favour with the top guard at the major. Because yesterday it was announced that the Warner/Chappell man would now start to oversee one of the company’s main frontline label operations too, following the departure of Warner Bros Records CEO Todd Moscowitz.

Moscowitz’s top team at the Warner Bros division, Rob Cavallo and Livia Tortella, will now report into Strang, who is in control of an ever expanding chunk of the Warner Music business.

Confirming the development, overall Warner Music Group CEO Stephen Cooper told CMU: “Since joining WMG, Cameron has demonstrated strong leadership, both in the revitalisation of our Warner/Chappell music publishing arm as well as through his service on the WMG board of directors. He has broad knowledge of both the music publishing and recorded music businesses, combined with an entrepreneurial drive and progressive vision for the role of music companies. I’m confident that he will be a significant champion for Warner Bros Records as we continue to invest in A&R and position the label for even greater success”.

Strang himself added: “It is a tremendous privilege that Steve has asked me to oversee the operations at Warner Bros Records. The extraordinary artists, the incredible history and the talented employees at the label make the company one of the crown jewels in the music industry and in contemporary culture. Throughout my career, I viewed Warner Bros as an example of what every music company should aspire to be – a creative haven for artists that provides them with unparalleled support in all aspects of their careers. To be able to contribute to the future success of one of the most storied brands in music and to continue Warner Bros’ tradition of creative excellence is a truly great honour”.

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